If you're looking for a nutritious and tasty side dish, then scalloped tomatoes are a perfect choice. With only 223 calories per cup, it's an excellent option for people who are trying to watch their calorie intake.
Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants and vitamins A and C, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Scalloped tomatoes are also low in sodium and fat, making it a great choice for people with high blood pressure or cholesterol.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making and serving scalloped tomatoes that your family and friends will love.
Introduction to Scalloped Tomatoes
Scalloped tomatoes are a classic side dish that originated in the southern United States. It's a simple recipe that involves layering tomatoes with breadcrumbs and cheese, then baking it in the oven until it's golden brown and bubbly. Scalloped tomatoes are delicious on their own as a side dish, but they can also be used as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or pork. They add a burst of flavor and color to any dish.
Scalloped Tomatoes: A Healthy Choice
Scalloped tomatoes are a healthy choice for people who are trying to maintain a balanced diet. They are low in calories, fat, and sodium, but high in vitamins and antioxidants. Tomatoes are known for their powerful antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. Additionally, they are an excellent source of vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and protect against infections.
Scalloped Tomato Recipe Ideas
There are many ways to make scalloped tomatoes, depending on your tastes and preferences. Some people prefer to add onions, garlic, or even bacon to the recipe to enhance the flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, feta, or Parmesan. Some people even add a layer of crumbled crackers or potato chips on top to give the dish a crispy texture.
Scalloped Tomatoes for Parties and Potlucks
Scalloped tomatoes are a great choice for parties and potlucks because they're easy to make and can be served hot or cold. Plus, they're a crowd-pleaser and go well with a variety of other dishes. To make it more portable, you can transfer the dish to a baking dish with a lid or cover it with aluminum foil. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave just before serving.
Scalloped Tomatoes: A Versatile Ingredient
Scalloped tomatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, from casseroles to pasta dishes. They add a burst of flavor and color to any dish and can be customized to fit your tastes and preferences. You can also use them as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables, or even as a pizza topping. The possibilities are endless.
Scalloped Tomatoes: A Great Addition to Any Meal
Scalloped tomatoes are a great addition to any meal, whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a flavorful topping for your main course. They're easy to make and can be customized to fit your tastes and preferences. Plus, they're packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for any diet.
How to Make Scalloped Tomatoes at Home
To make scalloped tomatoes at home, you'll need fresh tomatoes, breadcrumbs, cheese, and a few other simple ingredients. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Slice 4-5 tomatoes and place them in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and grated cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Scalloped Tomatoes: Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to make sure that your scalloped tomatoes turn out perfectly:
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese and toppings to find your favorite combination.
- For a creamier texture, add a layer of sour cream or cream cheese to the recipe.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Here is the nutritional information for one cup of scalloped tomatoes:
- calories: 223
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 12g
Scalloped Tomatoes: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about scalloped tomatoes:
- Q: Can I make scalloped tomatoes ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare scalloped tomatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or microwave just before serving.
- Q: Can I freeze scalloped tomatoes?
- A: Yes, you can freeze scalloped tomatoes for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Q: Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
- A: Yes, you can use canned or fresh tomatoes for this recipe. Just make sure to drain the canned tomatoes before using them.
Scalloped tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish that can be customized to fit your tastes and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scalloped Tomatoes
1. What are scalloped tomatoes?
Scalloped tomatoes are a dish made from sliced tomatoes layered with bread crumbs, herbs, and sometimes cheese. The dish is then baked until the tomato slices are tender and the top is golden brown.
2. How many calories are in one cup of scalloped tomatoes?
One cup of scalloped tomatoes contains approximately 223 calories.
3. Can I make scalloped tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make scalloped tomatoes ahead of time by layering the sliced tomatoes and bread crumb mixture in a baking dish, covering with plastic wrap, and refrigerating until ready to bake. Just be sure to remove the plastic wrap before baking.
4. What kind of bread crumbs should I use for scalloped tomatoes?
You can use any type of bread crumbs for scalloped tomatoes, but a coarse or panko-style crumb will give the dish a nice texture. You can also use seasoned or plain bread crumbs.
5. Can I add other ingredients to scalloped tomatoes?
Yes, scalloped tomatoes can be customized to your liking by adding additional ingredients such as garlic, onions, bacon, or different herbs and spices. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or substitute the bread crumbs with other ingredients such as ground almonds or quinoa flakes.